Kids are naturally little scientists. They’re constantly making observations, testing things out, and exploring. A magnifying glass is an inexpensive tool that can aid kids in their discoveries, and there are many shatterproof magnifying glasses for kids.
In this post:
- What can kids do with a magnifying glass?
- Things to look for in a magnifying glass for kids
- Best Magnifying Glasses for Kids
What can kids do with a magnifying glass?
Using a magnifying glass makes things look larger. It’s an excellent way to build science skills and curiosity. Pair the magnifying glass with a bug catcher and net—kids love to observe leaves and bugs and notice all the exciting details. They can look at food, clothing, or even their toys up close.
Kids can also take the magnifying glass on family hikes or trips to the park.
Allow for lots of unstructured time both inside and outside for kids to use their magnifying glass. There is no need for printables or for setting up activities for kids.
Kids can do a lot more learning when we stop interrupting them or telling them how they should be playing, though it might be helpful to model using the magnifying glass or suggesting that kids try taking it outside.
Pairing a magnifying glass with a book on bugs can help kids learn about what they find crawling around outside. We recommend finding one with lots of large color photos instead of drawings. This helps to show kids what things truly look like.
It’s through these real hands-on experiences that kids learn about the world.
- Related: 81 Free Outdoor Activities for Kids
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Things to look for in a magnifying glass for kids:
- Durable. In short, you want something that is going to last. Avoid cheaply made party favor types of magnifying glasses or ones with thin plastic that easily cracks.
- Shatterproof. You will want a plastic lens or a glass one with a plastic frame designed to keep it from breaking no matter how many times kids drop it. This will ensure that kids can play with the magnifying glass to their heart’s content without you needing to worry about broken glass.
- Easy to hold and carry around. You want one that is not too big or small as either will be hard for kids to grasp well. A grippy handle can be helpful. Avoid glass magnifying glasses that are extra heavy as these aren’t comfy for kids to carry around.
- Real. You want a magnifying glass that well… magnifies. There are many toy magnifying glasses for kids, but many of them are made to be pretend and don’t do the best just magnifying. We want to make sure that we give our kids tools that actually work instead of toy versions. They’re capable of handling and using real tools.
Best Magnifying Glasses for Kids
Here are our favorite magnifying glasses for kids. They all are functioning magnifying glasses (aka real tools) that allow kids to make observations.
1. Wapodeai Magnifying Glass
Lens Diameter: 2.95
Length: 8.95
This magnifying glass for kids has a non slip rubber handle and a shatterproof design. This protects the magnifying glass lens and keeps it from breaking when kids drop it. The glass lens provides excellent viewing quality, and the magnification allows kids to see lots of detail.
It’s small enough for kids to use comfortably.
2. MJIYA Magnifying Glass
Lens Diameter: 3.34 inches
Length: 7.5 inches
This next magnifying glass is slightly bigger than the one above but still features a shatterproof design that protects the lens. This handheld magnifying glass is grippy and well-sized for kids’ hands.
The larger lens allows kids to view more at one time.
3. Large Magnifying Glass
Lens Diameter:4.3 inches
Length: 8.8 inches
This is the biggest magnifying glass on this list and allows kids to view the most at one time. Our preschool students always gravitate toward the largest magnifying glasses and love how much they can see.
The high-quality magnifying glass lens allows for a clear, undistorted view. The frame features a shatterproof design that protects the lens when dropped, and the grippy rubber handle helps keep kids from dropping it.
The magnifying glass is lightweight and easy for kids to carry around.
4. Lighted Magnifying Glass
Lens Diameter: 3.35 inches
Length: 8.66 inches
This magnifying glass includes 12 led lights around the lens for enhanced viewing in low-light situations. We find that kids love using this feature. It requires 3 AAA batteries. The lights are turned on by pressing a button on the handle.
The magnifying glass lens is scratch-resistant and extra clear for seeing even the tiniest of details. But it is glass and requires a bit more caution than others on the list. This magnifying glass won’t stand up well if it is dropped.
This kids’ magnifying glass comes with a cleaning cloth for wiping off all those grimy fingerprints.
5. Hape Nature Detective Set
Lens Diameter: 1.95 inches
This magnifying glass set is designed for the outdoors and comes with a magnifying glass and a whistle. We love that both have a wrist strap and are easy for kids to carry around on adventures. The plastic lens is safe for kids; it’s the perfect size and shape and works well for young kids with little hands.
The whistle can make 2 different sounds and is perfect for days spent in the woods.
The magnifying glass and whistle are made of bamboo and plant-based plastic, making them a sustainable choice.
6. Nature Bound Big Magnifying Lens Toy
Lens Diameter: 4 inches
Length: 8 inches
This oversized kids’ magnifying glass toy is made specifically for kids and features fun styling that suits the outdoors well. It can be clipped to a belt or backpack using the provided plastic carabiner, making it easy for your outdoor explorer to take along on their adventures.
The plastic magnifying glass lens is safe for kids but does scratch easily.
7. TickiT Wooden Magnifying Glass
Lens Diameter: 3.9 inches
Length: 7 inches
This sturdy magnifying glass is great for toddlers and is recommended for kids as young as 12 months old. It features a large kid-safe shatterproof plastic lens and a wooden handle, which allows for a big viewing area and easy handling.
It holds up well over time and can be used indoors and outdoors.
Final Thoughts on Magnifying Glasses for Kids
We hope that you find the perfect magnifying glass for your kids and give them time and space to explore indoors and outside. Store the magnifying glass in a place where they can easily access it independently. This will make it readily available for when they’d like to make a science observation.
When you’re considering a magnifying glass or magnifying glass set, remember that extra features aren’t always better. Look for high-quality magnifying glasses that are easy and simple to use.
What do your kids like to do with a magnifying glass? Do you have a favorite magnifying glass?
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